Brazilian driver Rafael Camara is set to make his Formula 1 debut with Haas in the 2027 season, replacing Esteban Ocon, who will leave the team at the end of the 2026 season. The 21-year-old Ferrari Driver Academy member has earned his promotion following an impressive rise throgh the junior racing categories. His appointment also strengthens the connection between Haas and Ferrari.
Camara will partner with Oliver Bearman, who is another graduate of Ferrari’s driver development programme. As per several reports, Camara’s performances in Formula 2 and his work during testing helped him secure the opportunity to step up to F1.
Camara’s rise through junior categories
Camara has enjoyed a successful journey through the feeder series, winning the Formula 3 championships before moving to Formula 2 with Invicta Racing in 2026. He has continued to impress in his rookie F2 campaign, establishing himself as a leading contender for the championship.
His progress has strengthened his reputation as one of Ferrari’s most promising young talents. Camara has also gained valuable experience through testing older Formula 1 machinery, which helped him prepare for the demands of the sport’s top level.
His next challenge would now be to adapt to F1 while working alongside Bearman. His promotion marks another step in Ferrari’s strategy of grooming young drivers and placing them in competitions. As for Haas, the signing marks a fresh direction ahead of the 2027 season as the team prepares for life after Ocon. He joined the company in 2025 and will complete his stint with the team at the end of the current campaign.
